Digital Economy Mission Faces Setback: Minister's Remarks Spark Controversy

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2026-02-17 15:37:47 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-17 17:19:09

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The Karnataka Digital Economy Mission, an ambitious initiative to boost the state's digital growth, has hit a roadblock, with industry leaders expressing concerns over the lack of progress and a recent political controversy. Rohit Bhat, the lead anchor of the Mangaluru cluster, has raised doubts about the implementation of the LEAP (Livelihood, Education, Agriculture, and Public Health) initiative, which was announced five months ago.

Bhat's statement highlights the growing impatience among industry experts, who are eager to see tangible results. The LEAP initiative, a key component of the Digital Economy Mission, aims to transform Karnataka into a global digital hub by focusing on various sectors. However, the project seems to have stalled, with no visible progress on the ground. This delay has sparked worries about the government's commitment and ability to execute its digital vision.

Adding fuel to the fire, a recent statement by Priyank Kharge, the Minister for IT, BT, and S&T, has caused a stir. Kharge's remark labeling the coastal belt as 'communal' has drawn criticism from industry leaders. This unexpected controversy has shifted the focus from the mission's objectives to a political debate, further complicating matters. The coastal region, known for its vibrant IT sector, is now at the center of a dispute, potentially hindering the mission's progress.

With the Digital Economy Mission facing challenges, industry stakeholders await further developments. The government's response to these concerns and its ability to navigate the political controversy will be crucial in determining the future of Karnataka's digital transformation efforts. As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering if the mission can overcome these initial setbacks and deliver on its promise of a digital revolution.

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